The Effects of Intensity on Exercise-Induced Hypoalgesia During a Knee Extension Exercise

The Effects of Intensity on Exercise-Induced Hypoalgesia During a Knee Extension Exercise

The primary purpose of this study is to to compare immediate changes in pressure pain threshold at the exercising muscle (quadriceps) and a non-exercising muscle (upper trapezius) during low and high weight knee extension exercise. Participants will attend one session that consists of pain sensitivity testing, completion of pain-related psychological questionnaires, and random assignment to one of three interventions: 1) knee extension exercise with a high weight, 2) knee extension exercise with a low weight, or 3) quiet rest.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Pain-free
• 18-60 years old
• Participant can appropriately perform the knee extension exercise (assessed during screening)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Non-English speaking
• Regular use of prescription pain medications
• Current or history of chronic pain condition
• Currently taking blood-thinning medication
• Systemic medical condition known to affect sensation, such as uncontrolled diabetes or neurological conditions
• Any contraindication to the application of ice, such as: uncontrolled hypertension, cold urticaria, cryoglobulinemia, paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria, circulatory compromise
• Known presence of cardiovascular, pulmonary, or metabolic disease
• Current use of tobacco products
• Not physically ready to exercise without a medical exam as indicated by the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire Plus (PAR-Q+)
• Surgery, injury, or fracture to the lower back or lower extremity within the past 6 months